HealthSheets™

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Understanding Robotic-Assisted Myomectomy

Robotic-assisted myomectomy is a type of surgery. It’s done to remove growths in a women’s uterus called fibroid tumors. The tumors are not cancer. The surgery is done with special tools and a robotic controller.

What are fibroids?

The uterus is the organ where a baby grows during pregnancy. It’s in the lower belly (abdomen). Fibroid tumors are a very common type of growth in the uterus. They are also called leiomyomas or myomas. They are not cancer. They vary in size and number. A woman may have one or more fibroid tumors. They may be very small or as large as a grapefruit. A woman’s risk of having fibroid tumors increases as she gets older, until she no longer has menstrual periods (menopause).

Why is robotic-assisted myomectomy done?

You might need this surgery if you have fibroids that cause symptoms such as:

Heavy and long-lasting bleeding during your period

Lower belly (pelvic) pain

Pressure on the bladder or bowels

Trouble getting or staying pregnant

This is one type of surgery to remove fibroids. It is done with smaller incisions than standard surgery. This is known as minimally invasive surgery. It has some benefits over other surgery to remove fibroids. They may include:

Lower risk for complications (for example, less bleeding during surgery)

Shorter hospital stay

Faster recovery

Uterus is left in place

But robotic-assisted myomectomy may:

Take longer than other surgeries

Not be available where you live

Cost more

Your healthcare provider can help you decide which surgery will work best for you.

How is robotic-assisted myomectomy done?

The surgery will be done by an obstetrician/gynecologist (OB/GYN) surgeon. It can be done in several ways. The surgeon will make a few small cuts (incisions) in your abdomen. He or she will pass tools through the small incisions. These include a tiny camera with a light, and several robotic tools. The surgeon will use a robotic controller to move the tools and remove the fibroids.

What are the risks of robotic-assisted myomectomy?

Every surgery has risks. Risks of robotic-assisted myomectomy include:

Infection

Bleeding

Blood clots

Injury to nearby organs

Problems with a future pregnancy

Reaction to anesthesia

Return of fibroids after surgery

Your risks may vary depending on your age and overall health. They also depend on the number and location of the fibroids. Talk with your healthcare provider about which risks apply most to you.